I had the chance to test out Fender’s PM-2 Standard All Mahogany Parlor guitar which is an addition to their Paramount Series. The Parlor being a body shape which predates the most popular shapes of today, such as the dreadnought and the jumbo, was used regularly by blues guitarists in the 1800s and early 1900s, and has made a resurgence in today’s market.
At first glance, upon holding and checking out this All-Mahogany Parlor, with its solid mahogany back and sides, and open pore mahogany top, it has a vintage look and feel, including elements of classic ‘60s models such as checkerboard purfling and rosette and stylish inlays.
It has a short 24 ¾” scale, a classic 12th fret neck joint in the back, much like how older acoustic guitars were made, and a 19-fret rosewood fingerboard on top, scalloped X bracing, with a durable rosewood bridge and compensated bone saddle and ebony bridge pins. The neck is C-shaped and has rolled edges.
The overall aesthetics of this guitar are beautiful and it feels like you actual own a vintage guitar. I love the old school ‘40s style Fender logo on the headstock and the fingerboard inlays. I think this look really makes it stand out from other modern acoustic guitars. It is geared more towards a fingerpicking style, but it can also make a good travel guitar.
There are no electronics in this guitar which makes it a pure all acoustic design. It is super lightweight, and I like the smaller body design, which makes it easier to reach over to play the neck and remain comfortable. It sits well on the lap and there is less chance of fatigue in the shoulder and on the wrist.
The open-pore finish on the top allows the guitar to resonate freely, making for an extremely lightweight instrument that lends itself to having a nice full and earthy rich tone and open resonant sound. The mids are really focused.
It feels nice to play, especially bluesy type licks and it tunes really well. The bass of the guitar has a really nice growl to it, and it has a loud sound for such a small guitar.
Overall, it was easy and comfortable to play with great tone and an old-school feel. It is well made and aesthetically pleasing. I think for anyone that is looking to add a Parlor to their collection, this is an affordable option that doesn’t compensate for quality. I really enjoy playing these smaller bodied guitars, and I would like to add one of these to my collection someday.
I found this guitar at online music stores starting at $599 and it comes with a Fender hard shell case which is a bonus as you will definitely want to protect this little beauty.
